Women's African Dresses Buying Guide

African dresses have always been an epitome of elegance and sophistication, especially when worn by women. They are not just clothing but also serve as an expression of African culture and traditions. For women, owning an African dress can mean a lot. It could, for instance, give you confidence, help you stand out, and make you feel proud of where you come from.

However, buying a perfect African dress can be challenging, especially in a market that now has a wide variety of styles, fabrics, and designs. With that said, in this article, we will give you a guide to help you choose the right African dress, whether for a special occasion or everyday wear.

Fabric

Fabric is a crucial factor when choosing an African dress. Besides showcasing the African tradition, African dresses come in various materials. Different fabrics have varying degrees of quality, stretches, pattern, texture, and weight. Here are some popular African dress fabrics to guide you:

• Cotton: Cotton is a common African dress fabric. It is lightweight, breathable, and comfortable to wear, especially during summer. It is also easy to clean, which makes it perfect for everyday wear.
• Wax print: Wax print, also known as Ankara, is the most common African dress fabric. It is made with natural fibers such as cotton, silk, or linen and features colorful and bold patterns. It has a rigid texture and is best suited for formal or semi-formal occasions.
• Kente: Kente is a traditional woven fabric from Ghana. It is made from silk and cotton and features intricate geometric patterns. It is suitable for special occasions such as weddings.
• Fleece: Fleece is the most common fabric for winter African dresses. It is thick, warm, and soft, making it perfect for cold weather.
• Silk: Silk is another African dress fabric, but it is more expensive. It has a luxurious feel, drapes beautifully, and is perfect for evening occasions.

When choosing fabric, consider the occasion and your preferences. For instance, if you plan to attend a formal event, you might opt for a wax print or silk African dress. If you prefer comfort and versatility, cotton is the best option.

Style

African dresses come in different styles, each complementing an individual’s body shape. Here are some popular styles;

• Maxi dress: This style features a long, flowy dress that falls to the floor. It is perfect for formal occasions such as weddings or evening events.
• Midi dress: This style falls below the knee and above the ankle, making it ideal for casual events or everyday wear.
• A-line dress : This style is fitted at the top and flares out from the waist. It is suitable for women with an hourglass or pear-shaped body.
• Bodycon dress: This style is more fitted, showing off your curves. It is best for women with a straight or hourglass-shaped body.
• Wrap dress: This style is versatile and flattering. It features a wrap-around waist and is perfect for women with an apple-shaped body or those who want to hide their stomach.
• Sleeveless dress: This style is perfect for summer and features no sleeves, making it ideal for showing off your arms or wearing a statement necklace.
• Off-shoulder dress: This style features a neckline that exposes the shoulders. It is perfect for women with a pear-shaped body, as it draws attention to the upper body.

When choosing a style, consider your body shape, the event, and your preference for comfort. For instance, a bodycon dress might not be suitable for a formal event, while a maxi dress might be too formal for everyday wear.

Design

African dresses come in various designs, each showcasing African culture and traditions. Some popular designs include;

• Kitenge: Kitenge is a traditional African dress design that features bold and colorful African prints. It is suitable for formal and casual events.
• Dashiki: This African dress design originated in West Africa and features beautiful embroidery patterns. It is perfect for both men and women and is suitable for casual and formal events.
• Tie-dye: Tie-dye is a fabric design that features vibrant, dyed patterns. It is perfect for casual events and everyday wear.
• Batik: Batik is a traditional fabric design from West Africa that features wax resist patterns. It is perfect for formal and casual events.
• Kanga: Kanga is a traditional African dress design from East Africa that features colorful patterns and can be worn as a skirt or dress. It is suitable for both formal and casual events.
• Aso-oke: Aso-oke is a handwoven fabric from Nigeria that features intricate patterns and designs. It is perfect for special occasions such as weddings and formal events.

When choosing a design, consider the occasion and your preference. If you prefer bold and colorful designs, Kitenge or Dashiki will be the best options. If you prefer more subtle designs, Batik or Aso-oke might be the best choices.

Size

When buying an African dress, ensure that you choose the right size. African dresses come with different measurements, and the sizes vary depending on the country of origin. Some African dresses run small, while others run big. Therefore, it is crucial to take your measurements before making a purchase.

Here are some tips that can help you choose the right size:

• Check the size chart: Most online sellers provide a size chart. Ensure that you check your measurements against the chart to choose the right size.
• Read customer reviews: When buying online, read customer reviews to see what other buyers are saying about the sizing. This will help you determine whether the dress runs small, big, or true to size.
• Ask for help: Some online sellers have customer service representatives who can help you determine the right size. Contact them if you are unsure about the size to choose.

Conclusion

Choosing the right African dress can be challenging, but with this guide, we hope that you can make an informed decision. Remember to consider the fabric, style, design, and size when making a purchase. We hope that you find the perfect African dress that showcases your personality and makes you proud of where you come from.